When you train solo, and especially with a training partner, it is imperative that you use angles as often as possible. Moving straight in and straight out all the time is a recipe for disaster. In self-defence it is even more important to use angles, to keep yourself as safe as possible. In this video lesson I explain much of what you should be doing on the heavy bag.

It is for boxers, kickboxers, martial artists and self-defence students who want their bag work to build habits that keep them safe.

Why Straight Lines Get You Hit

If you move straight in and straight back out, you are always in front of your opponent. That is where all of their weapons are pointing. They do not have to adjust anything to hit you. They just have to time it.

Move to an angle and the picture changes. They have to turn to face you, and while they turn, they cannot hit you properly. You, meanwhile, are already set to strike.

Angles in Self-Defence

In self-defence, angles matter even more. A real attacker is often bigger, may not be alone, and does not follow any rules. Staying on their centre line means facing everything they can throw at you. Moving off the line gives you a moment of safety and a better position, whether you then leave or deal with the threat using reasonable force.

What to Do on the Bag

Treat the bag as an opponent who can hit back. Some points to work on:

  • Strike, then step off to an angle before striking again
  • Move both ways, not just to your favourite side
  • Keep your hands up and your chin down while you move
  • Change angle and level, so the bag is never in the same place twice
  • Never stand square in front of the bag admiring your work

Common Mistakes

The most common mistake is standing still and hitting. The second is moving to an angle but leaving the hands down while doing it. The third is only ever going one way, so you become predictable.

How to Practise

Spend whole rounds where every combination must finish with a change of angle. Then take the same habit into padwork and light sparring with a partner, keeping contact controlled. It will feel awkward at first, and then it becomes how you move.

Take It Further

Footwork and angles are covered in detail in the Learn To Box Online Course. For the self-defence side, see the Pressure Point Self Defense Course.